According to the Yale Substance Abuse Treatment Unit, opiates are a pain relieving class of drugs that include heroin, methadone, and oxycodone. Opiates may cause a feeling of euphoria, in addition to drowsiness and mood changes. When opiates are used for a long period of time, a tolerance and eventual addiction to the drug may occur. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that an estimated nine percent of the population abuses opiates at any given point in life. Opiates can become physically and psychologically addicting, and lead to serious withdrawal symptoms when discontinued.
Initial Withdrawal
The National Library of Medicine indicates there are early withdrawal symptoms that may occur with abstinence from opiates. Often early symptoms present like having the flu; however, the symptoms may become amplified in the first 48 hours of detoxification from the drug. Initially, sleep disruptions and runny nose occur. These symptoms may progress into abdominal pains, diarrhea, and sweating. It is also possible during the first portion of withdrawal for anxiety and tearfulness to occur due to the body trying to readjust without the drug.
Progressive Symptoms
Initial symptoms of withdrawal may become amplified as detox continues from opiates. Additional symptoms that occur later include vomiting and body aches. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the symptoms of ongoing withdrawal are uncomfortable, but not life threatening, although the person experiencing the symptoms may feel otherwise. Progressive symptoms may continue for weeks after cessation of opiates.
Psychological Symptoms
In addition to the physiological symptoms, withdrawal from opiates may induce psychological turmoil. According to a 1986 study in the National Library of Medicine, psychological withdrawal from opiates may take the form of anxiety/ distress. Additionally, irritability and mood instability are common during withdrawal. It is also during the withdrawal period that cravings may become more intense, impacting restlessness and potential signs of depression.
